Meet Sydney Frankhouser | Owner & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sydney Frankhouser and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sydney, what is the most important factor behind your success?
One of the most important factors behind my brand is the story behind it. My Gypsy Child originated from the nickname my grandmother gave to me as a kid but the meaning of “gypsy child” is about so much more. This brand is meant to illustrate the many different places my grandmother traveled too during her younger years and the many different cultures she embraced. I pride myself promoting uniqueness and differences that ultimately creates something beautiful. Each hat will never be the same as the next. Each design revolves around a different geographical location, utilizing natural crystals and stones from each place. Having the opportunity to start a company in honor of one of the most influential women in my life and telling her stories through my hats is something I could have never have dreamed of. My whole life she encouraged me to embrace being different and now I can only hope that I continue to send that message through my work.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Almost 2 years ago this February, I tested positive for Covid-19. Mid-pandemic I was stuck in my apartment with very little to do. With my 24th birthday coming up I decided to pass the time by creating my very on birthday “crown”. I got the initial idea from the cultural beauty of Tulum Mexico where wide brim hats are a fashion phenomena. The idea to use true clear quartz crystals originated from the healing properties of this specific crystal which is often otherwise known as the “master healer”. These healing properties seemed right during the time our world was currently in. The first hat I ever made was wrapped in brown leather wrapping and then paired with crystals circling all around the brim of the hat. Never would I have expected that this first hat was going to open up a dream I never thought would come true. Since then, this hat has matured into hundreds of different designs I have completed. The majority of my work is custom, giving me and my clients an opportunity to work together in order to capture the vision we are putting onto a hat as canvas. From creating bridal hats for new brides to remember the most important moment of their lives to transferring a message from a lost loved one in their original hand writing. I have poured so much love into these hats to the point that they become so much more than just a fashion accessory. I am excited to continue to build a brand based on each one of my customers who have single-handedly grown my business into what it is today. The process is far from easy but one I wouldn’t change. It all happens so fast. Enjoy being naive, the nerves, the pressure. Don’t compare yourself or your business to others around you. We all have different stories and if you start at the top then there is nothing to look forward to. Take advantage of the people you meet along the way. I have had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most worldly people who I have learned from, laughed with and enjoyed the ups and downs with. Never be afraid to ask for help.The process of making a name for yourself is never easy nor does it have to be glamorous. I can only pray that the world knows My Gypsy Child as a brand of inspiration to do the things you never thought possible. To travel outside of your comfort zone, to be content with not being content, and most importantly to embrace the people and places the way God intended.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Our first stop would definitely be to visit Brickell and grab a drink at Better Days. Then we would head over to little havana for a light bite at Casa Florida. Definitely can’t do Miami without stopping at Wynwood to take pictures next to the wall murals that are constantly changing by artist. Some of my favorite spots to eat and drink would have to be Sexy Fish, Joes Stone Crab and Sugar. The Miami Design District is my go too for when I need a little inspiration pick me up!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I have to shout out my grandmother (Sally Spegar), if it wasn’t for her My Gypsy Child would not have evolved to the mission based brand that it has become. Also I would like to shout out my wonderful family who have supported my business from the start. My two older sisters, my mother and my niece who modeled new designs for me when I was just getting started to my father and wonderful brother in laws who have been the man power behind the business logistics. Each one of them have always pushed me to pursue my entrepreneurial spirit with our faith as the foundation of everything we do. My faith has given me everything in this life. Somethings were blessings, and some were lessons but I am grateful for everything that has been sent my way. I also could not have done this without the support of my exceptional friends. From coming out to every pop-up shop to constantly promoting my brand on social media, I am so very blessed. Not to mention my roommate who at the start of My Gypsy Child had to deal with our two bedroom apartment being completely flooded with hats!

Website: www.mygypsychild.com

Instagram: @my_gypsychild